Microsoft Clarifies AntiSpyware Statement

In a statement posted on Steve Dodsons's WebLog today we see that Microsoft is infact going to keep their AntiSpyware tool available free of charge for people who authenticate through WGA:

"Today when I came in to the office, I was made aware of an issue which stated that a Microsoft Representative was quoted as saying Windows AntiSpyware would no longer be available for free.

The statement quoted in many forums is not true.

As we have been saying since day one, Microsoft Windows AntiSpyware will be available at no charge to licensed users of Windows. Users who validate their Windows install through WGA will be allowed to download the AntiSpyware beta, as well as the full standalone version of AntiSpyware when it releases to the web. This has not changed since Bill Gates announced this information at the RSA conference in February. The enterprise version of Windows AntiSpyware is targeted to companies who want to centrally manage their Windows AntiSpyware infrastructure. The enterprise version of Windows AntiSpyware will be available for a cost (which has not been determined yet). For users who want more services including AntiVirus, computer backup, and AntiSpyware we will be offering Windows OneCare live. Windows OneCare Live is currently in beta, but when it releases to the web it will be available to users with a cost."

So rest assured folks, Windows AntiSpyware will remain free with OneCare being the subscription based "for-fee" security program from Microsoft.

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